"Today we start talking about the 20th Century," Josh said. "This might be the first time you've ever done that in a US History class. Savor the moment because this means that we're almost at the end of the school year. Yes, we're going to cram more than a hundred years of history into the next few classes, but don't worry. I covered three hundreds years of exploration in an hour, so this can be done."

He looked down at his notes. "Okay, almost the 20th Century. Spanish American War. 1898. Close enough for government work. Rough Riders. Hurst and Pulitzer. 'Remember the Maine', charging up San Juan Hill, et cetera."

He turned to look at the class. "This was the last time Spain was considered a superpower and made the United States, which took control of the Spanish colonies of Guam, Puerto Rico and the Philippines through this, well, frankly ridiculous excuse for a war, a global force. Remember that for next class when we talk about World War I."

He cleared his throat. "Today's discussion. Is 'because it seemed like a good idea at the time' an acceptable reason to go to war?"

On their way out the door, Josh handed back their test results:

Veruca Cally A
Jake Gavin C+
Piper Halliwell A-
Lana Lang A
Veronica Mars B
Quinn Morgendorffer C+
Chloe Sullivan B

[OOC: If you haven't taken the test, stop by Josh's office hours on Wednesday to do so].